Easwaran’s T20 Heroics Spark Debate Over His Test Selection

The saga of Abhimanyu Easwaran continues to baffle fans of Indian cricket. The Bengal opener has consistently excelled in domestic red-ball cricket for years, yet he remains without a Test debut. Despite multiple selections to India’s squad, team management has continuously opted for different players when opportunities have arisen.

At 30, Easwaran boasts an impressive first-class record—8,136 runs in 109 matches at an average of 47.85—stats that typically ensure a long tenure in Test cricket. However, his absence from IPL squads and limited white-ball experience have led many to think he doesn't align with the current trend of selecting multi-format players for Test matches.

This perception may be changing. In a recent Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy match against Punjab, Easwaran delivered a stunning 130 off 66 balls, indicating a commitment to enhance his white-ball credentials. While Bengal didn't claim victory, his performance captured national interest.

Ravichandran Ashwin, on his YouTube channel, humorously remarked on the situation, targeting chief selector Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir. Commenting on Easwaran’s T20 success, Ashwin stated:
“Now that Abhimanyu has scored a century in T20, we’re surely going to see him. Since he’s made runs in T20, he’ll definitely make the Test squad now.”

This comment reflects the lingering frustration among fans and former players who feel Easwaran has earned a shot, especially with the retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from Test cricket. Yet, the selectors turned to younger talent like Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair, neither of whom have had a significant impact against England.

One critique directed at Easwaran has been his struggles to shine in India A matches—often seen as key auditions for the national team. Earlier this year, he shared the emotional burden of waiting for an opportunity.

“Yes, it does hurt sometimes. You work hard, prepare well, and the dream is always to be contributing to the team on the field,” he stated in an interview with Revsportz in October. “But I feel fortunate to have a supportive network—family, friends, coaches—who keep me centered. I’m in a good place now and eager for the Ranji season.”

With increased visibility across formats and senior positions starting to open up, Easwaran’s patience might soon bear fruit. For now, his narrative remains one of domestic achievement still longing for its international stage.